However your child spent their summer, the first day back can feel jarring. That shift into a school routine rarely happens without a few bumps, but a little preparation goes a long way toward making it smoother for everyone.

Give the Adjustment Some TIme

New situations take getting used to, and a new school year — especially a new grade or school — is no different. Reassure your child that the jitters are normal and will fade.

Focus on the upside: seeing friends, meeting new classmates, picking out supplies, joining a club, or a new first-day outfit. But don’t skip the harder conversations — ask what’s worrying them, whether it’s a new teacher, tougher work, or a classmate from last year. Naming the worry often shrinks it.

Being home when your child gets back that first week helps, if your schedule allows it. If not, set aside focused evening time instead. For kids starting somewhere new, a pre-first-day visit to the building, a peer buddy, and connections with other new families all ease the nerves.

Rebuild the Routine Early 

Start the school-night rhythm a few weeks ahead:

• Earlier bedtime: lights-out before 9 p.m.
• Real breakfast: helps focus and performance.
• Written cheat sheet: locker combo, class times, teacher names, bus details.
• Calendar or planner: track assignments, tests, and practices.
• Prep the night before: backpacks and clothes ready to go.

Some anxiety is normal and usually fades. But headaches, stomachaches, or worry that feels deeper than typical nerves is worth mentioning to a pediatrician, teacher, or counselor.

A Practical Back-to-School Checklist 

Clothes, supplies, and lunch

• Check the dress code.
• Confirm if a change of clothes is needed for PE or art.
• Make sure the backpack fits well.
• Decide packed lunch vs. school lunch; learn the menu and payment system.

Health and medical paperwork

• Confirm vaccinations are current.
• Submit emergency contact and health forms.
• Tell the nurse and teachers about allergies, asthma, diabetes, or similar needs.
• Flag learning-related needs (seating for ADHD, vision issues, etc.).

Getting there and back safely

• Know start time and transportation plan.
• Confirm bus stop, pickup times, drop-off zone.
• Review crosswalk and bus safety.
• For walkers/bikers, map a safe route and revisit stranger-danger rules.

Planning for After School

Younger kids need supervision — a relative, neighbor, or program; even 11-12 year-olds may not be ready to be home alone. If they will be, set clear rules: when they should be home, how they’ll check in, who’s allowed inside, and what to do in an emergency.

Formal after-school programs (school-run, community center, YMCA, etc.) offer more than supervision: skills, friendships, and a break from screens. Check staff ratios, safety, and whether there’s still time for homework.

Making Homework Manageable

• Set up a quiet space, not the bedroom, so it stays a wind-down zone.
• Keep the TV off; set rules for phones and social media.
• Help rather than do the work for them.
• Check in on assignments to catch confusion early.
• Notice if homework is taking too long or too little time, mention it to the teacher if so.
• Encourage note-taking and questions in class, and stay in touch with teachers year-round.

Above all, the transition goes easiest when kids know their parents are there to listen, not to demand perfection.

Read more on this topic from our partners at Nemours Children’s Health.

This blog post is brought to you in partnership with Nemours Children’s Health – together we develop our camp safety standards, best practices and provide tools and resources for families to keep kids safe, healthy and happy. Learn more about our partnership & find a Nemours location near you.